
About
ISLAND Arts Bright Ideas Children’s Arts Festival 28 Jul to 15 Aug 2025. Three Weeks of Creative Fun ON SALE NOW
Got your summer plans sorted for the kids? ISLAND Arts Centre in Lisburn has you covered! It is set to host its ‘Bright Ideas’ Children’s Arts Festival, offering three weeks of fun and creative workshops for 5–16-year-olds. Running from 28 Jul to 15 Aug 2025. Each week is packed with different activities, giving kids a chance to explore new skills and let their imaginations shine. It’s the perfect way to add some artistic adventure to their holidays.
Week 1: Tech & Tales: Code, Create, Discover!
(28 Jul – 1 Aug)
This week blends technology and storytelling. Children will build robots, design games, create virtual worlds, and produce films. They’ll also explore digital art and even try fencing.
Week 2: Join the Circus! (4 – 8 Aug)
Circus skills take centre stage. Participants will learn plate spinning, trapeze (low level), and juggling. They’ll also try clay sculpting, dance, drama, and junk art.
Week 3: Making Your Mark! (11 – 15 Aug)
This week focuses on various art forms. Children will explore street art, create artwork inspired by famous artists, try pottery, learn illustration, and participate in the creation of a large-scale street mural project. Working alongside a professional artist, they will design and paint a section of the mural, which will become a temporary public art installation within the city.
Fun Time Fridays
Every Friday features a “Fun Time Friday” and weather permitting, participants will also explore the outdoor Sculpture Trail and enjoy a picnic by the River Lagan.
Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chair of Communities & Wellbeing, said, “We’ve put together a festival that gives kids a chance to try new things. Each week has a different focus, so there’s something for everyone. We want to give local children fun and creative experiences during the summer holidays.”
Good to Know
Each week runs from 10am to 4pm daily, with a cost of £90 per child. Multiple week and sibling discounts are available. Expert-led workshops include all materials and a free festival t-shirt. Parents are asked to provide a packed lunch and water bottle for their children. Sunscreen is also essential, and children should wear their free festival t-shirt.
Facilities
Establishment Features
- Toilets
Event Facilities
- Booking Required
Parking & Transport
- Parking (free)
Payment Methods
- All major credit/debit cards accepted
Travel & Trade
- Family Discount - (MULTIPLE WEEK AND SIBLING DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE)